How Safe Are Montana Hikers When Using Bear Spray?

When it comes to bears, we're at a pivotal time of the season. It's the time of year when bears are looking to load up on as much food as they can as they prepare for the winter months.

And that can spell bad news for us humans if we're not careful.

When Are Bears Eating The Most In Montana?

According to Bear.org (gotta love it), bears are currently in the stage known as "hyperphagia" which "is a period of excessive eating and drinking to fatten for hibernation." So, to answer the question of when bears are eating most... it's now.

In one study shared by Bear.org, it was revealed that black bears, when given unlimited food, "ate 15,000 to 20,000 kcal per day and drank several gallons."

Obviously, this means bears are out in full force preparing for hibernation and if you're not paying attention (or aren't prepared) while on a hike, you could find yourself in some serious trouble.

We've previously talked before about weapons you would need in the event bear spray fails but how likely is that to happen? On the other hand, what are the chances your bear spray actually works?

How Safe Is Bear Spray When You Have To Use It?

While having a high-caliber weapon might work for some people, there are others who prefer bear spray. Whether it's to avoid seriously harming the bear or for financial purposes, people have their reasons for choosing the spray.

We looked at various sources to answer the important question we all came here for: what is the success rate of bear spray?

We looked at different sources and found varying results. In one study from OutsideOnline.com, the success rate of using bear spray against brown bears was 33%. With that being said, the same study pointed out the sample size was small with results based on three out of nine charging bears involving the use of spray.

Another study from Bear-Hunting.com revealed that out of 83 bear spray incidents (61 brown bears, 20 black bears, and two polar bears), red pepper spray had a success rate over 90%, "with 98% of people involved in these incidents unharmed by the bear."

In another report from the SABRE, a pepper spray company, they shared information from the Journal of Wildlife Management which found bear spray had a success rate over 90% as well.